Sowing the Seeds of Community - Sacred Space

We often create the things we truly need for ourselves. 

Buddhism has been my compass and refuge throughout my life, however my journey has been a lonely and isolated one. I would often read books, listen to dhamma talks and meditate in solitude. However, there were many periods of time when I would fall out of practice, a part of me wished I had a friend I could share my learnings with and reflect upon how I can integrate these new learnings into my life.

The extended periods of isolation during the pandemic reminded me of just how crucial it is to be rooted in community in order to restore understanding, learning, strength and awareness. It was in the absence of community that I realised just how healing consistent practice would be during times of uncertainty. In a culture where everyone rushes, everyone is caught up in their habitual patterns, practicing is extremely hard. That is why ‘Sacred Space’ has been my salvation, by sitting beside you, I am pulled back into the present moment. 

Sacred Space is a safe and supported container where the spiritual dimension of our human experience can be explored and deepened through community. During this gathering we meditate together and read passages in an informal yet respectful atmosphere. A sense of unity is generated by these gatherings as all insights and reflections are treasured and valued. So far, we have explored the themes - ‘making room for stillness’, ‘dāna - generosity’, ‘what it means to lead both a spiritual and ambitious life’, and ‘love through the Buddhist lens’. 

In this space I’ve been able to witness the discovery of our own inner pearls of wisdom and clarity which comes from giving our experiences a voice. I will always be inspired by those little ah-ha moments, when someone’s story deeply resonates with our own, erasing our sense of alienation and revealing our shared humanity. May we continue to bolster one another to embody the Dhamma by honestly meeting ourselves in this moment. May the strength of our roots in community bring about an awakened response which will allow us to rediscover and embrace what is beneficial within the world around us and to rebuild things that are not.

Sacred Space is open to all people of all backgrounds, it is an extension of my heart to expand this community together. I light up at the thought of all the faces I am yet to meet and stories I am yet to hear and I hope it is yours.